UPDATE: Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum provided updates regarding the shooting incident that occurred at the Empire Mall on Friday evening. According to Thum, authorities believe 2-3 gunshots were fired near the Zumiez store around 7:30 p.m.

While no injuries have been reported at the mall or local hospitals, police did recover shell casings at the scene, confirming that a shooting had taken place.

Investigators have identified a suspect, described as a teenage male between the ages of 13 and 17.

“This is going to take time,” Chief Thum stated during a media briefing. “This appears to be an isolated incident involving a juvenile possibly making a decision with a firearm.”

Chief Thum encouraged anyone who was present at the mall during the incident or who has information about the suspect to come forward and assist the investigation.

He also commended the swift response by mall staff and law enforcement, noting the challenges of managing the chaos as shoppers ran for cover and sought shelter throughout the mall.

Law enforcement officials continued clearing the mall late into Friday night, with officers conducting thorough sweeps of the premises. Plans were being made to increase security at the mall, although it was unclear when it would reopen on Saturday.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

An active shooter incident unfolded at the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls on Friday evening, prompting an immediate and coordinated response from emergency services.

Reports indicate that at least 3 shots were fired inside the mall, and three shell casings have been recovered at the scene.

Sioux Falls Police have confirmed that the shooter fled the scene and is currently at large.

A source speaking with Channel2 NOW shared that a friend revealed her brother was one of the individuals injured in the mall shooting. He is currently in critical condition and undergoing surgery.

A SWAT team has been deployed to assist with securing the area, and law enforcement officers are actively searching for the suspect.

All shops within the mall were promptly advised to shelter in place as a precautionary measure.

Customers and staff inside the mall were notified of the lockdown status and have since begun being evacuated in an orderly manner.

The Sioux Falls Police Department call log officially categorized the situation as an active shooter and weapons violation.

Authorities have established a substantial presence in the vicinity, with heavy police activity visible on 41st Street.

This is an ongoing investigation, and law enforcement is urging the public to avoid the area while they work to ensure safety and apprehend the suspect. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Sioux Falls Police Department immediately.